With the automotive industry focused more and more on fuel efficiency in their mid to heavy-duty tow vehicles, Canadian RV enthusiasts have a wide range of choices for travel trailer, fifth wheel and fold-down camping trailer touring, as well as pickups to carry your truck campers to the edge of the wilderness – and beyond! Here’s a cross-section of the 2008 vehicles that would be a perfect match for the RV of your dreams.

The 2008 Chrysler Aspen is offered in Limited trim with 4x4 configuration and 5.7-litre HEMI® V-8 engine featuring best-in-class 250 kW (335 horsepower) and Chrysler Group’s Multi-displacement System (MDS) that seamlessly alternates between four- and eight-cylinder modes depending on power demand, for improved fuel economy. With the 5.7L engine and the 3.92 rear axle ratio, the Aspen can tow 8900 pounds.
See what’s new from Chrysler Canada at www.chrysler.ca

The all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan sets a new standard for the minivan segment with over 35 new or improved features that make it the best vehicle to transport people and things. The industry-exclusive Stow ’n Go seating and storage system, the only minivan seat system to offer both second- and third-row seats that fold into the floor, is still part of the 2008 Grand Caravan’s recipe for success.  With the factory installed towing package, the Grand Caravan can tow 3500 pounds.

The Dodge Durango continues to have a lot to offer. Customers who demand performance and efficiency may choose between two engines: a standard 4.7-litre V-8 engine with the Flexible-Fuel Vehicle (FFV) designation as well as improved fuel economy with more horsepower and torque, and a 5.7-litre HEMI® V-8 with the Chrysler Group’s fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS).  The 2008 Dodge Durango also brings comfort, convenience and refinement to the full-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) market – plus several best-in-class capabilities: towing capacity of 8,750 lbs, cargo space (behind the second row of seats) of  68.4 cubic feet, and 335 horsepower with the available 5.7-litre HEMI®.

The 2008 Dodge Dakota also features new exterior and interior styling, and many best-in-class capabilities, such as best-in-class towing capability of up to 7,100 lbs, the greatest interior room of any mid-size truck, with 94.3 cubic feet of interior space in Extended Cab models and 102.3 cubic feet for Crew Cab, and the largest and longest standard cargo bed in its class: 6-foot-6-inches in the Extended Cab. the new 2008 Dodge Dakota ups the ante with a new 4.7-litre V-8 engine that not only offers 302 horsepower (31 percent increase) and 329 lb.-ft. of torque (13 percent increase), but also better fuel economy and increased refinement.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is offered in regular cab, Quad Cab® and crew-size cab, with three box lengths: 8-foot (regular cab), 6-foot-4-inches (regular cab and Quad Cab), and a new-for-2009 box length of 5-foot-7-inches (Ram crew 1500). Industry-first RamBox cargo management system (crew-size cab) includes versatile, weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage bins built into the side bed rails hold up to 10 cases of 12-ounce beverages, or other gear for work or leisure. An all-new 4.7-litre V-8 that produces more horsepower and torque with better fuel economy and refinement than the engine it replaces; and the V-8 that offers the first-ever fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS) cylinder deactivation technology offered on a pickup truck.

The 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Chassis Cab boasts numerous class-leading attributes including the highest single-rear-wheel Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 10,200 lbs, best-in-class rear frame strength (50,000-psi steel), largest standard fuel tank 196 litres (43.3 imp. gal.), best-in-class standard V-8 power (HEMI® V8 with 330 horsepower, and best-in-class interior cab room of  121.7 cubic feet for Quad Cab® models.  The Quad Cab model with the 6.7 L Turbo Diesel engine can haul 16,000 pounds.

Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs boast a standard legendary Cummins power, with the Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 in a 6.7-litre displacement and a six-speed AISIN automatic or six-speed manual transmission with Power Take Off capability. Together with class-leading brakes and a standard diesel exhaust brake system extends brake life while giving the driver increased control. The 4500/5500 series Ram can haul up to 18,450 pounds.
See what’s new at www.dodge.ca

The Jeep Liberty’s exterior has been redesigned, and takes on a more rugged, classic Jeep look that is sure to captivate the attention of current Jeep Liberty owners.  Making its world debut is the new Sky Slider™ full-open canvas roof, an industry-exclusive; giving the Jeep Liberty that “Only in a Jeep” open-air experience.  There are three models – Jeep Liberty Sport, Jeep Liberty North and Jeep Liberty Limited.  Tow rating with the trailering package is 5000 pounds.

For 2008, Jeep Grand Cherokee adds an all-new 4.7L V-8 engine that delivers a 30 percent increase in horsepower, and a 9 percent increase in torque. Powered by a 6.1-litre HEMI® V-8 producing 420 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 delivers a complete performance package, with exceptional ride and handling, world-class braking, race-inspired interior appointments and functional, performance-oriented exterior. With the 4.7L engine, the Grand Cherokee is rated at 6500 pounds towing capacity. With the 5.7L Hemi or the 3.0L diesel it can tow 7200 pounds.
Go off-road on-line at www.jeep.ca

The new Ford Escape offers a more refined ride, go-anywhere capability, impressive fuel economy, up to 3,500 pounds of towing, and a more comfortable interior that is quieter and more versatile. The 2008 Escape is one of the first Ford Motor Company vehicles to use speed-sensitive Electric Power Steering (EPS), a sophisticated system that helps correct for road irregularities and improves overall steering feel. The 2008 Escape’s available 3.0-litre, 24-valve V-6 Duratec 30 engine makes 200 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 193 lb.-ft of torque at 4,850 rpm.  The V-6 powered Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

The 2008 Ford Ranger has a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds to suit customers’ work and play needs.  Ranger’s 3.0-litre OHV V-6 engine produces 148 horsepower at 4,900 rpm and 180 pound-feet of torque at 3,950 rpm. The larger, SOHC 4.0-litre V-6 produces 207 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 238 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. All three engines come with a 5-speed manual transmission and are available with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Explorer’s optional three-valve, 4.6-litre V-8 delivers 292 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to the first 6-speed automatic in the segment, with a wide, 6.04:1 gear ratio, enabling the engine to spend more time in its optimum power band — either at peak power for acceleration or at peak efficiency for optimal fuel economy. The Explorer 4x4 can tow up to 7160 pounds with the trailer towing package installed.

The Expedition is powered by Ford’s tough truck-proven 5.4-litre Triton™ V-8 engine. Rated at 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, Expedition can tow up to 9,000 pounds, for the best tow rating in its class. Ford’s exclusive AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control) utilizes two gyroscopic roll rate sensors to accurately measure the vehicle’s yaw and roll angles. If the roll rate sensor detects a significant roll angle, the system applies additional countermeasures – such as applying brakes to one or more wheels or reducing engine power – to help the driver maintain control.

The 2008 Ford F150 has an integrated trailer brake controller that is factory installed to allow direct operation of the trailer’s electronic brakes.  Trailer Sway Control works with AdvanceTrac with RSC that is standard on all F150 models. It determines from the yaw motion of the truck if the trailer is swaying and applies precise braking or reduced engine torque to bring both vehicles under control. The tailgate step is now available on the F150 that makes climbing into the box simple and effortless. An F150 with the 5.4L engine, automatic transmission and 4.10:1 rear axle ratio call tow up to 11,000 pounds. Customers can choose an innovative mid-box, mounted in front of the standard pickup bow and behind the cab that provides lockable storage for tools and other valuable items.

The Ford Super Duty F-series with 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engine has twin turbos, the first gets things moving and the second keeps it moving at higher speeds. It has the power to tow up to 24,500 pounds. The 2008 Super Duty’s tough truck capability starts with a solid foundation. From the F-250 pickup, F-350 pickup, F-450 pickup, right up to the F-450 and F-550 chassis cab, each chassis is custom-tailored to provide the utmost in strength, flexibility and durability.
All F-250 and F-350 4x4 pickups utilize a monobeam, coil-spring front suspension geometry that provides better steering feel and response and enables class-leading braking.
Hit the road in style at www.ford.ca.

The Lincoln Mark LT’s standard 5.4-litre, 3-valve V-8 engine produces 300 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 365 pound-feet of torque at 3,750 rpm. With a maximum towing capacity of 8,900 pounds, Lincoln’s Mark LT can tow anything from a horse trailer to a small yacht and carry all the gear needed to arrive in style.

Power is provided by Lincoln Navigator’s 5.4-litre, 3-valve V-8 engine, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, that generates 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. A wide-ratio, 6-speed transmission has smaller steps between gears than a typical 4-speed automatic and offers improved shift quality and faster acceleration. With a wide 6.02:1 gear ratio and two overdrive gears (fifth and sixth), the Lincoln Navigator’s 6-speed offers up to a 7 percent increase in fuel economy on the highway over a typical 4-speed automatic. The Navigator with 4x4 can tow 8900 pounds.
Go upscale at www.ford.ca and click on “full vehicle lineup”, Lincoln, Navigator.

The Buick Enclave luxury SUV with the Dual overhead cam 3.6L V6 engine and variable valve timing peaks out at 275 horsepower and 252 pounds-feet of torque. Equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, traction control, and all wheel drive, the optional trailer towing package enables it to tow 4500 pounds of trailer.
See more at www.gm.ca/gm and click Buick, Enclave.

A crossover sport van for those with multifaceted lifestyle, the Chevrolet Uplander delivers the bold styling of an SUV, the passenger room and interior versatility of a van, and the smooth ride of a sedan. The `08 Chevy Uplander is powered by a sophisticated 3.9L V-6 that uses variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. The 3.9L engine delivers 240 horsepower,  240 lb.-ft. of torque and a FlexFuel version that's capable of running on E85 ethanol is available and can tow 3500 pounds. StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with Traction Control is now standard on all models.
Check out the Chevrolet Vans section of the website at www.gm.ca

The GMC Canyon offers two, powerful inline engines in most regions. Standard on all models except 4WD crew cabs is a 2.9L DOHC four-cylinder engine, rated at 185 horsepower  and 190 lb.-ft. of torque . A 3.7L DOHC five-cylinder is standard on 4WD crew cab models and available on all other Canyon models. It is rated at 242 horsepower and 242 lb.-ft. of torque . The crew cab with the 3.73:1 rear axle ratio can tow 4000 pounds.
Take a look at www.gm.ca/gm and click GMC, Canyon.

The Tahoe Hybrid uses GM's new 2-mode hybrid system and delivers up to 25 percent improved fuel economy . Indeed, the Tahoe Hybrid offers the utility and capability customers seek in a full-size SUV. The Hybrid can tow up to 6,200 pounds; and to maximize its efficiency, the 6.0L V-8 engine is equipped with GM's Active Fuel Management technology, which switches between four- and eight-cylinder power in certain driving situations.
See more at www.gm.ca/gm and click Chevrolet, Crossovers/SUVs, Tahoe.

GMC’s Yukon Denali performance is derived from a 6.2L all-aluminum small-block V-8 engine with variable valve timing and a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. The 6.2L engine is rated at 380 horsepower  - the most horsepower in its class. A six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 RWD electronically controlled automatic transmission backs the 6.2L engine including two overdrive gears . Also, the 6L80 has a "tap up/tap down" capability that allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts with a button on the column shifter. The Denali can tow 7900 pounds of trailer.
Looking for more information? Visit www.gmc.ca and click on GMC, Yukon.

The original sport utility vehicle from General Motors, Chevy Suburban's success is derived from its capability of hauling more passengers and cargo than any other vehicle in the segment. It is based on GM's full-size SUV architecture, which features sleek exterior styling, a sharper, more precise driving feel, more power with improved fuel economy, increased interior refinement and improved quietness.  It is offered with 2WD and 4WD, as well as 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 series. Suburban 1500 models come standard with an efficient 5.3L V-8 with Active Fuel Management fuel-saving technology. Also available is an all-aluminum 6.0L V-8 with Active Fuel Management and variable valve timing . A 6.0L engine with an iron cylinder block is offered on 2500 models. Several available engines run on E85, a renewable fuel made of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Suburban 1500 offers up to 8,100 pounds of towing capability, and when properly equipped; Suburban 2500 can tow up to 9,600 pounds.
Check out the website at www.gm.ca – click Chevrolet, Crossovers/SUVs, Suburban.

The Cadillac Escalade with the 6.2L all-aluminum V-8 engine with variable valve timing technology delivering 403 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. of torque can tow 8000 pounds. The Escalade Hybrid will feature GM's two-mode hybrid propulsion system combining gas and electric engines for significant fuel economy improvements, while maintaining the traditional capabilities of a full-size SUV. When the first mode operates as electric only, fuel consumption is reduced in heavy stop-and-go traffic by shutting off the engine for extended periods of time and moving exclusively under electric power at low speeds. The second mode is primarily used at highway speeds. Full eight-cylinder engine power is provided when conditions demand it, such as passing, towing or climbing a steep grade.
Looking for luxury? Click Cadillac at www.gm.ca

The Silverado 1500 2WD can tow 10200 pounds with the 6.0L and a 3.73 axle, or 10500 pounds with the 4WD and the 4.10 rear axle. Built on GM's new full-size truck platform, the Silverado incorporates features such as a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering. It also has wide front and rear tracks that enhance stability and driving confidence through a more secure road feel. The NHT suspension, designed for maximum towing capacity, includes monotube rear shocks, 17-inch wheels and on/off-road tires, high-capacity rear springs, heavy-duty locking rear differential, Z85 handling/trailering suspension, hybrid rear axle with front and rear disc brakes. This is also available as a Hybrid built in Canada.
For more information visit www.gm.ca click Chevrolet, trucks, Silverado.

Silverado heavy-duties are offered in a range of 2500HD (three-quarter-ton) and 3500HD (one-ton) models; and are available in WT, LT and LTZ trim. The range of configurations - three cab styles, three cargo box styles and five wheelbase lengths - delivers tremendous choice. The 2008 Silverado HD pickups offer many segment-best capabilities, including 18,500-pound gross combined vehicle weight rating for vehicles with a gas V-8 and a 13,000-pound conventional trailer weight rating enabled by a larger-capacity trailer hitch platform. Maximum towing capacity is 16,700 pounds, when equipped with a fifth-wheel hitch.
For more information visit www.gm.ca click Chevrolet, trucks, Silverado.

The GMC Sierra heavy-duties are offered in a range of 2500HD (three-quarter-ton) and 3500HD (one-ton) models.  The standard engine is a 6.0L gas V-8 with variable valve timing. It is rated at a best-in-class 353 horsepower and 373 lb.-ft. of torque  on single rear-wheel configurations (up to 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating). Variable valve timing helps improve performance and fuel economy. A cleaner, more powerful Duramax 6.6L turbo-diesel engine is available. It continues to lead the segment in power and torque, with power ratings of 365 horsepower  and 660 lb.-ft. of torque . The renowned Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission features a class-first range selection function, which allows the driver to easily select the desired gears to match driving conditions, such as towing a trailer on a steep grade.
Check out the website at www.gm.ca follow the clicks to GMC, Sierra.

The GMC TopKick C4500 and C5500 Series are available in Crew Cab and is often converted to a tow vehicle for large trailers. The new optional Duramax 6.6L engine delivers 330 horsepower and 620 lb.-ft. of torque New six-speed 2350 Series Allison transmission with 13,600 kg (30,000 lb.) GCWR and park pawl is optional on C4500/C5500 diesel models.
For more information check out the website at www.gmc.com/mediumduty/topkick

Hyundai Veracruz has a  3.8-liter Lambda DOHC V6 engine with dual exhaust and can tow 3500 pounds. Independent MacPherson strut w/ coil springs in the front, and Independent multi-link w/ coil springs in the rear with gas-charged shock absorbers. An electromagnetic clutch AWD system provides traction.

Hyundai Entourage with the V6 3.8L engine can also tow 3500 pounds. It has power-assisted disc brakes, 4-channel/4-sensor/4-wheel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control System , and Multi-port fuel injection.
It is equipped with a 5-speed automatic with overdrive lock-up torque converter, shift lock and SHIFTRONIC® manual shift mode.
Visit the website at www.hyundaicanada.com

Acura MDX is the largest and most powerful V-6 in Acura’s history, delivering class-leading power, the 3.7-liter VTEC V-6 teams with Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ system to deliver superior handling in most all road conditions. The MDX’s 3.7-liter DOHC VTEC® V-6 produces 300 horsepower at 6000 rpm with 275 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. The V-6 employs a unique dual-stage magnesium intake manifold, direct ignition system, variable flow exhaust, and electronic Drive-by-Wire Throttle System™ to help deliver V-8 performance with the fuel economy of a V-6. When towing, special Trailer Stability Assist algorithms built into the VSA® logic help stabilize the vehicle after sensing oscillations of the vehicle or trailer system. The tow rating is 5000 pounds.
Check it out at www.acura.com

The Mercedes-Benz 2008 M-Class line features the ML550 – a new 382-horsepower V8-powered model that replaces the ML500.  Providing a 26 percent boost in power, the new ML550 joins three very different models – the fuel-efficient ML320 3.0L Turbo CDI diesel, the popular ML350 3.5L V6  and the high-performance 6.3L V8 ML63 AMG.  The new ML550 is powered by a 5.5-liter all-aluminum V8 producing 382 hp and 391 foot-pounds or torque, with maximum torque available from 2,800 to 4,800 rpm, providing impressive engine response over a broader RPM range. The Mercedes group offers a tow rating of 7000 to 7500 pounds.
See it all at www.Mercedes-benz.ca and follow the model selector to M-Class.

Mitsubishi Outlander 4x4 with the new 3.0-liter 220-hp aluminum MIVEC V-6 engine teamed to a six-speed Sportronic® automatic transmission (with magnesium steering wheel paddle shifters in XLS models) can tow 3500 pounds. All Outlander models for the 2008 come standard with front-wheel drive and Active Stability and Traction Control. All are available with an optional electronically controlled 4-wheel drive system – All-Wheel Control.
Visit the website at www.mitsubishi-motors.ca

Mitsubishi Endeavor The Mitsubishi Endeavor is a crossover-type mid-size sport-utility vehicle that combines car-like driving dynamics with impressive comfort, safety, room and versatility. and can tow 3500 pounds.  Endeavor is available with front-wheel drive or full-time all-wheel drive. New for 2008, front-wheel drive models gain the Active Stability and Traction Control system, which was already standard on the all-wheel drive models.   Endeavor’s smooth 3.8-liter V-6 engine produces 225 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 255 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,750 rpm.  Abundant torque at lower engine speeds provides responsive yet relaxed performance, along with quiet power train operation.  
See it all at www.mitsubishi-motors.ca

Mitsubishi Raider with a 4.7L v6 engine, 5-speed auto transmission and 3.92 rear axle, can tow up to 6200 pounds.  The model line is streamlined for 2008, offering one extended-cab model and two Double Cab models. The emphasis on four-door Double Cab models reflects Raider’s appeal as a multi-capable SUV alternative.   The Extended Cab model has a 6.4-foot bed, and Double Cab models come with a 5.3-foot bed. Raider is built on a fully boxed, hydro-formed and roll-formed steel frame.  The frame’s inherent strength, in combination with front coil-over independent suspension and power rack and pinion steering, gives Raider a comfortable ride and capable handling.

Nissan Xterra, with its advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6, produces 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. It has an aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, microfinished crankshaft and camshafts, Teflon®-coated pistons, Nissan variable Induction Control System, Continuous Valve Timing Control System, and a silent two-stage timing chain. It is supported by an independent all-steel double-wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar and Solid axle leaf spring rear suspension. Its tow rating is 5000 pounds.

Nissan Pathfinder expands its lineup for the 2008 model year with the addition of a new 300-plus horsepower 5.6-liter V8, the first V8 offered in its 22-year history in the United States market. This more powerful option offers a significant increase in torque, rated at 380-plus lb-ft to achieve 7,000 lbs of maximum towing capacity. A new available 5.6-liter DOHC V8 produces 300-plus horsepower and 380-plus lb-ft of torque (SE-V8, LE-V8); aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, forged steel crankshaft, microfinished crankshaft and camshafts, graphite-coated pistons, 6-bolt main bearing caps, and a single-stage timing chain.  Also available is Pathfinder’s proven 266-horsepower 4.0-liter version of the award-winning Nissan VQ-series V6 engine.